Public transport taxis in Bavaria: More and more districts are relying on flexible on-demand taxi services.

New public transport taxi solutions are increasingly complementing the scheduled services in Bavaria. Clear fare models, funding programs and digital booking systems create a user-friendly offering – especially in regions where traditional bus services reach their limits.

A public transport taxi on a rural road: vehicles of this kind complement scheduled public transport in many Bavarian districts and ensure mobility beyond regular bus services. | Stock image: AI-generated
A public transport taxi on a rural road: vehicles of this kind complement scheduled public transport in many Bavarian districts and ensure mobility beyond regular bus services. | Stock image: AI-generated

More and more districts in Bavaria are relying on the ÖPNV-Taxi to close mobility gaps, especially in rural areas. The model combines taxi services with elements of scheduled services and is used mainly where regular bus operations are not economically viable. The trips are usually booked in advance and are tied to fixed stops or pickup points.

Tariff model and financing

The fares align with the respective ÖPNV tariff. Passengers usually pay only the regular single fare or a small copayment. The difference to the actual remuneration for the companies is borne by the districts or transport associations, supported by subsidies such as the Bavarian “Directive for the Promotion of Alternative Modes of Operation in Public Transport” (Bayern-ABF). For example, the passenger share is about 2 to 3 euros, while the remuneration for the operating company is around 10 euros or more per trip.

A May 2025 study on the cost-effectiveness of public transport shows that every euro invested yields an economic benefit of around three euros. This finding underscores the importance of alternative service models for structurally weak regions.

Perspectives for businesses and passengers

For taxi companies, pre-booked rides provide a predictable utilization, especially during off-peak times. Additional economic benefits arise from low idle times and clearly defined billing models. At the same time, the offerings attract new user groups, including older people without their own vehicle.

Passengers benefit from improved accessibility to train stations, medical facilities and other central destinations. The use is possible by telephone, app or online booking and is priced largely in line with traditional public transport offerings.

MVV region with extensive RufTaxi and FLEX lines

In the catchment area of the Munich Transport and Tariff Association (MVV), public transport taxis are integrated as RufTaxi or FLEX lines. The vehicles operate exclusively upon demand. Booking is via the MVV app or by telephone. The tariff structure is fully embedded in the MVV system. Time-card holders often travel without surcharges; for other users, the regular single-fare prices of the respective tariff zone apply.

Several districts within the MVV already offer a broad spectrum of such lines, including Dachau (lines 7000 to 7100), Freising (6001 to 6004) and Fürstenfeldbruck (8000 to 8800).

Outlook

Further municipalities are currently examining the introduction of comparable models. The focus is on regions where conventional bus services can only be operated economically to a limited extent due to low demand or high operating costs. (Source: Landesverband Bayerischer Taxi- und Mietwagenunternehmen e.V.)

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